A Kuwaiti professor fled to the US after being put on trial for a 'joke' Twitter post

Law professor, Fatima Al Matar, faced a severe backlash after posting something she felt was harmless on Twitter. Al Matar was told that the post would lead to prosecution due to the nature of the joke which was deemed "insulting to God."

The tweet was intended as a lighthearted joke that commented on gender inequality, according to her.

In order to protect herself and her daughter, Al Matar fled to the US to start a new life.

She explained her reasons for leaving through her Twitter page stating: "I was referred to public prosecution over the linked tweet, they accused me of blasphemy, insulting God and misusing a phone! They sent me to trial because I asked God for a Ferrari and equal rights! I can no longer stand an abhorrent, hypocritical society. I no longer believe in a homeland that ridiculously jails its people."

In another tweet, she said: "I am happy that I'll be starting a new life in a beautiful country that believes in the value and dignity of a human being. A place that believes in freedoms and rights. I am thrilled that my daughter will be getting a better life."

Some members of the Arab community have banded together to support Dr Fatima's decision to flee, condemning the judicial system in Kuwait.

"I wish you all the best, Professor #Fatima_Almatar for you and your daughter really proved that ignorance is living between us. @ f_almatar Kuwait has lost a first-class doctor until next time old friend"